Gay Group Trip: Lisbon and The Douro River

Start the day with a guided tour of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the historic Belém Tower, the grand Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Walk through the city’s charming streets, taking in the architecture and local culture. The afternoon is free for personal exploration—perhaps visit the lively Bairro Alto district, ride the famous yellow tram, or sample pastéis de nata at a local bakery. Enjoy dinner at leisure, with plenty of restaurants offering fresh seafood and Portuguese specialties.

Depart Lisbon and journey north through Portugal’s stunning countryside. Stop at a traditional wine estate for a guided tour and tasting session, followed by a leisurely lunch featuring local cuisine. Arrive in Porto and board the AmaSintra, your luxurious river cruise home for the next seven nights. Settle into your cabin and explore the ship’s amenities. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner onboard while sailing past Porto’s illuminated waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in the views with a glass of Port wine as you prepare for the Douro River adventure ahead.

Spend the morning cruising through the breathtaking Douro Valley, surrounded by terraced vineyards and rolling hills. Arrive in Régua and visit a historic quinta for a traditional Portuguese lunch paired with local wines. In the afternoon, explore the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Mateus Palace, known for its Baroque architecture and photogenic setting. Return to the ship for a relaxing evening on board. Enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers while the ship gently glides along the river, passing picturesque villages and lush vineyards.

Sail along the peaceful Douro River, taking in the ever-changing scenery of steep hills and olive groves. In the afternoon, visit Castelo Rodrigo, a well-preserved medieval village with cobbled streets and breathtaking hilltop views. Explore its ancient walls, charming houses, and the historic church. Sample local almonds and olive oil before returning to the ship. Enjoy an evening of fine dining onboard as the journey continues toward the Spanish border. Relax on deck with a cocktail or enjoy entertainment provided by the crew.

Travel by coach to Salamanca, Spain, a UNESCO-listed city filled with golden sandstone buildings. A guided walking tour takes you through the stunning Plaza Mayor, the centuries-old University of Salamanca, and the impressive New and Old Cathedrals. Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch in a local restaurant, followed by an exhilarating flamenco performance. In the afternoon, explore the city at leisure—perhaps shopping for souvenirs or visiting Casa de las Conchas. Return to the ship in the evening, where a relaxing dinner awaits as the cruise continues along the river.

Wake up to another beautiful morning on the Douro and cruise toward Pinhão, a town famous for its wine production. Stop at Quinta da Avessada, an interactive wine museum, where you’ll enjoy a lively lunch with local specialties and a tasting of Moscatel wine. Continue to a family-run quinta for a private Port wine tasting, learning about the region’s long-standing wine traditions. Return to the ship for a relaxing evening onboard. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while sailing through the heart of the Douro Valley, admiring the golden hues of the sunset over the terraced vineyards.

Explore Lamego, a historic town known for its grand Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. Climb the impressive baroque staircase leading to the church or stroll through the town’s picturesque streets. Sample local specialties like bôlas de Lamego, a savory stuffed bread. In the afternoon, relax onboard as the ship cruises back to Porto. Spend the evening taking in Porto’s vibrant riverfront scenery with a farewell dinner onboard. Share memories of the journey with new friends while enjoying fine Portuguese cuisine and entertainment.

Begin the day with a guided tour of Porto’s historic center, exploring its winding streets, colorful houses, and stunning azulejo-tiled churches. Visit a famous Port wine cellar for a tasting session before an afternoon excursion to the fishing village of Afurada. Experience the laid-back coastal lifestyle, watching fishermen at work and exploring the town’s traditional restaurants. Enjoy a festive farewell dinner onboard, celebrating the end of an unforgettable journey with music, laughter, and toasts to new friendships.

After breakfast, disembark in Porto and transfer to the airport for onward travel. If time allows, take a final stroll along the Ribeira district or pick up last-minute souvenirs before bidding farewell to Portugal.